COLLEGE STATION, Texas (RFD-TV) — Cattle markets continue to face sharp swings as geopolitical tensions and the ongoing southern border closure weigh heavily on the livestock sector. Economists warn that the lack of cross-border trade is straining rural communities and feeder operations across the southern United States.
Texas A&M livestock economist Dr. David Anderson joined Tony St. James on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss the latest developments.
In their discussion on RFD-TV News, Anderson outlined the impact the closure is having on feeder cattle markets and the financial strain it is placing on farm families raising those animals. They also addressed the recent Cargill plant closure and its potential impact on market capacity and supply chain stability.
Looking further ahead, Anderson emphasized that if the current disruptions persist, their effects could ripple across the entire beef supply chain—from feedlots to processors, also noting the emotional challenges producers face when trading in such uncertain conditions, explaining how sentiment can influence decision-making and market behavior.
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Expanded school access to whole milk provides modest but reliable demand support for U.S. dairy producers.
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Alissa White with American Farmland Trust joined us to provide insight into climate resilience efforts and strategies to help farmers manage weather-related risks.
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RFD News correspondent Frank McCaffrey reports from Texas on the ongoing water dispute and its implications for U.S. farmers.
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The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2026 agenda centers on labor stability, biosecurity, and economic resilience for family farms. Expanded DMC coverage improves risk protection for dairy operations facing tighter margins.
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A high-stakes legal case in a South Dakota federal court concerning misleading country-of-origin labeling (MCOOL), such as “Product of the USA,” on food products, will significantly impact U.S. agricultural policy for years to come.
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Agronomy experts explain why standing crop residue protects soil and reduces costs for crop growers, while shredding often yields little benefit at higher costs.
January 14, 2026 08:00 AM
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Secretary Rollins also met with specialty crop producers at a local strawberry farm to discuss workforce needs and the Trump Administration’s recent wins related to significantly cutting the cost of H-2A labor for California farmers.
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